The easiest method is to climb a ladder to the roof and walk along the edge, blowing the leaves from the gutter as you go. A safer method is to use an extension kit. This extends and curves the reach of your leaf blower, so you can clean the gutters while standing on the ground. For this option, climb the ladder and walk along the edge of the roof, collecting debris in modest piles with a pole and a gutter shovel.
Make a new pile approximately every five feet, keeping safety in mind. Instead of using your hands to get everything out of the gutter, grab a high-pressure hose and spray everything. You'll need to make sure that any larger debris has been removed so that it doesn't get stuck in the downspout or hit the roof before using the hose. If it is necessary to walk on the roof to perform gutter cleaning, it is good to wear shoes with a rubber sole.
Rubber soles tend to adhere better and prevent slip and fall accidents. Roofs tend to be damp in the morning, so it's best to walk on the roof after the sun is in the sky and all the moisture has dried up. Late morning or early afternoon are the best times to walk on a roof. If you are cleaning gutters in damp conditions (rain or pools of standing water on the roof), remove most of the debris by hand before cleaning the rest with a packed cloth.
Of all the necessary ills that make up a diligent fall maintenance routine, gutter cleaning may be the most feared of all. In autumn (any time between October and January, depending on when the leaves bend), clean the gutters again to remove residues from deciduous trees. And, when working at that height, the roof is also worth a look, as a solid roof, like clean gutters, is critical to the integrity of your home. If you prefer to clean the gutter while remaining firm on the floor, a telescopic rod is the best option.
An ounce of gutter blockage prevention saves a lot of time and goes a long way in keeping gutters clean and free of debris. Whether it's raining or not, it would be a good idea to repair the electrical wiring before cleaning the gutters. In this installment, Greg explains everything homeowners need to know to clean gutters safely. But don't despair otherwise, whatever your configuration, our guide includes a way to clean the gutters that work for you.
Rain gutters become clogged with leaves and other debris over time, so it's best to clean them regularly to avoid tougher jobs later on. They are fallen leaves and other types of debris that can build up in gutters over time, so cleaning them should be part of your year-round seasonal maintenance. Cleaning gutters is one of the most important things you can do to maintain your home. Failure to do so can be detrimental to your foundations, frames, and walls.
The following two techniques are useful for those who prefer to clean gutters with their feet firmly planted in the ground. To clean a section of gutter while standing on a ladder, work at chest level with your body facing the house. To reduce or avoid the undesirable chute cleaning task altogether, consider installing a screen, such as Raptor stainless steel micromesh gutter protection.
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